Salaries at Drake

At Drake University, located in Des Moines, Iowa, salary expectations for faculty and staff are typically determined by a combination of role, academic rank, experience, and field of expertise. Salaries often vary significantly between academic disciplines, with fields like law, business, and pharmacy generally commanding higher compensation due to market demand. Administrative roles are influenced by the level of responsibility and years of service. While Drake University does not publicly publish detailed salary bands or transparent pay scales on its official website, some data may be accessible through state or national higher education salary surveys, reflecting its status as a private institution with a commitment to competitive compensation.

• Assistant Professor: Typical salary range is approximately $60,000–$75,000 USD per year, depending on the department and prior teaching or research experience. Entry-level roles may start lower but often include opportunities for research funding.
• Associate Professor: Average salary range is around $75,000–$90,000 USD annually, with variations based on seniority, publication record, and tenure status. Additional stipends for departmental leadership may apply.
• Full Professor: Salaries typically range from $90,000–$120,000+ USD per year, reflecting extensive experience, research contributions, and institutional service. Bonuses or endowed chair positions may increase earnings.
• Academic Dean: Compensation often falls between $120,000–$160,000 USD annually, influenced by the size of the college and strategic responsibilities. Performance-based incentives are sometimes included.
• Administrative Staff (e.g., Admissions Officer): Salaries generally range from $40,000–$55,000 USD per year, depending on the role’s scope and years of service within the university.

Salaries at Drake University are generally considered competitive within the Midwest region for private liberal arts institutions, though they may not match those at larger research universities or coastal schools. Progression in academic ranks often comes with incremental salary increases, tied to tenure reviews and performance evaluations. As a private university, Drake’s compensation structure is not directly benchmarked against public sector standards, but it aligns with industry norms for similar-sized institutions. For prospective employees, understanding salary expectations may require direct negotiation or consultation with human resources, as comprehensive public data remains limited.